The Swan Princess: A Stressed Statue: Alex’s Wrongful Punishment

The Swan Princess:

A Stressed Statue: Alex’s Wrongful Punishment

Alex was nervous; Dumbfounded and nervous. Fighting Zelda was a cake walk compared to this. She smiled timidly, and descended the grand staircase, polished mahogany handrail under her fingers, to the waiting crowd below.
“Why me?” she thought as she approached the visitors, careful not to trip on her ball gown. It was midnight blue, with a silver sash that tied at the waist. There was also silver embroidery around the neck and wrists. All in all a beautiful dress, and Alex was proud to wear it.

Most people in the castle’s Great Hall were either staring at her, or worse, whispering to their companions. “Dad just had to announce me,” she thought, annoyed. “Now every eye in the room is on me.” Finally she reached the landing and joined her parents. “At least it’s harder to see me,” she thought with some relief.
“Alex,” Odette whispered, “Don’t be so nervous. Relax, this is your ball.” Alex half heartedly smiled. “Easy for you to say,” Alex thought, “You’ve been doing this all your life.”

She was about to reply when a group of people approached her. Alex was about turned to greet them, and out the corner of her eye, she could she Odette sneak off. “I’ve just been deserted!” Again Alex turned her attention to the four young people that approached her.

The first one, a strawberry blonde girl, walked up to Alex with a feigned smile. The girl curtsied, straightened up, and smiled proudly, as if she’d just hit the bulls eye on a target blindfolded. Alex bit her lip to resist the urge to laugh or roll her eyes. If only out of politeness, she curtsied back. She’d practice the awkward move with Odette, who coached her with patience that Alex was jealous of. The move still felt strange to her, although she had it perfected. Now, here in the ball room, she performed it with stunning grace.

Alex straightened up and looked at the girl, who was sneering behind her polite smile. Alex also noticed the two young men beside the girl snickering with obvious pleasure. The other girl looked down and hid her smile with her hair. The first girl became even more polite. She smiled wider, although Alex, whose perception had greatly improved, could still sense something behind it. “How do you do?” she asked. “My name is Princess Lauren.” The boys beside Princess Lauren were all but rolling on the floor with laughter. Again, Alex had to stop herself from rolling her eyes. Instead, she decided to do something else; be as polite as possible. “I’m Princess Alexandra,” she had to choke out the full title, she hated using it. “You can call me Alex, everyone else does. Welcome to Swan Lake.”

Alex relaxed a bit more as the other royals introduced themselves. They weren’t as formal as Lauren, but more friendly and respectful. “My name is Martin,” the boy to Lauren’s right said. “I’m very pleased to meet you.” Martin smiled sincerely after introducing himself, his red hair and green eyes shining warmly.

Next, the boy to Lauren’s left introduced himself. He also had red hair, but his eyes were more grey than green. He looked younger than Martin. “My name is Thomas,” he said. “I’m Martin’s brother.” “Younger brother,” Martin interjected.

Finally, the girl next to Thomas spoke for the first time that night. “I’m Rosemary,” she said timidly. She didn’t look related to Martin and Thomas; her hair was dark brown, as were her eyes. She was absolutely tiny, and Alex hovered over her. “Welcome, all of you,” Alex said, “to Swan Lake.”

In Laura’s case, Alex’s welcome fell on deaf ears. The entire time Alex and the others were exchanging pleasantries, Lauren was busy gawking at the size of the castle’s Great Hall. “Your castle is so large…” she muttered. Alex shrugged nonchalantly, “I guess so. When I first came here, I got lost trying to find my room.” “You mean you haven’t lived here all your-. Oh that’s right. You were an orphan.” Lauren said the last word with a tone that made Alex’s eye twitch. “Yes,” she answered. “I was an orphan.” She pronounced each word carefully, making sure she was not being rude. “Oh well, that’s sad,” Lauren replied condescendingly. “If you’ll excuse me,” she said, just before sauntering off.

Alex, now that she was safe, rolled her eyes. Thomas and Martin laughed aloud as Rosemary giggled, again hiding it with her long hair. Alex turned to them, confused. When they saw the expression on her face, they snickered even more. Finally, between bursts of laughter and sad attempts at catching their breath, Rosemary choked out, “Sorry, we’re… not… laughing at… you.” She was still doubled over, but Thomas somewhat recomposed himself. “Lauren is so uptight; she’d make the perfect arrow shaft if we could shrink her.”

Alex relaxed even more. That is, until she felt something heavy on her shoulder. She’d been having an interesting conversation with her new friends when a hand began to rest on her shoulder. Her head whipped up to see who was touching her. She turned her head a little and saw Matt, whose head was cocked slightly to the side.

Alex’s face reddened with embarrassment. First, she gotten all worked up because Matt, someone she loved and trusted, put his hand on her shoulder. Second, she probably hit him hard on the nose when her head snapped up. “Oh Matt! Did I hit you? I’m so sorry!” Matt grinned in answer, “No, you didn’t hit me. I was just tilting my head so my nose wouldn’t get broken. I swear, as fast as yours head snaps up, it’s a wonder you don’t break your neck!” Thomas and Martin chuckled, but not unkindly, as Rosemary giggled a bit.

Alex rolled her eyes playfully. “At least I don’t sneak up on people.” Again, Matt grinned in response. He kissed her on the cheek and whispered, “You look amazing tonight.” Alex blushed. Just then, the band, led by Lord Rogers, her father’s friend and councilor, began to play a slow song.

“May I have this dance?” Matt asked formally as Alex again blushed. She’d never danced before, though she had seen her mother do it (while she kept a safe distance away). Nevertheless, she allowed Matt to lead her onto the dance floor. They were the only people on it however; everyone else was too busy staring. “Of course we would be the center of attention,” Alex thought. “I’ve never danced before,” she whispered. Matt took her right hand and replied, “Don’t worry, I’ll lead.”

After a few seconds of movement, the audience began to fade away. All Alex could see (and wanted to see) was Matt. All she could feel was her hand in his. She felt like she was walking on air, instead of stone and tile flooring. For Alex, the dance was over all too soon. Matt kissed her again and whispered “I love you.” “I love you too,” Alex replied, realizing now that they were not the only couple on the dance floor. Odette and Derek joined them when Alex wasn’t looking. There were also a few other couples, but she couldn’t (and didn’t bother to) remember their names.

They walked back to Thomas, Martin, and Rosemary hand in hand and all smiles. “You two are good dancers,” Martin noted. “You mean Matt’s a good dancer,” Alex replied. “He led, I just followed.” “Either way,” Rosemary said quietly, “You both looked at each other as if you were the only ones in the room.”
Thomas, who was uncomfortable with the topic of dancing, changed the subject. “What happened to Lauren?” “You mean you actually care?” Martin snorted. “She’s been talking to her father, you know, King Gregory, since she left. Alex shrugged, which was difficult with Matt’s heavy arm around her shoulders. Martin grinned, “Oh well. Better him than us.” Alex and Matt had to bite their lips to keep from laughing, Thomas gasped, and Rosemary shot Martin a ‘you- did- not- just- say- that’ look. “What?” he said innocently, “Everyone’s thinking it. I’m just saying it.”

A few hours later, the ball was over, and having said all her “good- byes,” Alex sat on the balcony on the outside of her room, and watched the last of the carriages leave Swan Lake. She was joined shortly by Matt, who smiled despite the hour and his level of exhaustion. “I’d think you’d be asleep by now,” he said. “I probably should be,” she agreed. Matt sat beside her on the balcony. “I’m surprised you did the whole ‘song and dance.’” Alex smiled, “Well the song was hard. But the dance… well, that was fun.” “I’m glad you had fun. You’re a good dancer; light on your feet.”

“And I’ve never even danced before.”

“You had me fooled.”

“I’ll say,” another voice cut in. It was Odette, followed by Derek. “Okay, so we’re having the after party on my balcony,” Alex joked.

“So you had fun?” Odette asked, knowing the answer. “Yes I did. I didn’t really think I would,” Alex confessed, just before she yawned. “What time is it?” Derek asked, quite tired himself. “I don’t know the hour,” Alex answered, “but it’s time for you three to clear out so I can get some sleep.” “I thought you don’t need to sleep,” Odette teased. “Ha ha,” Alex muttered. “Do you even know what I had to put up with since you deserted me? Much to my everlasting chagrin, I’m absolutely awful when it comes to formal social occasions. I’m seriously tired.” “Alright, alright,” Odette laughed, “Goodnight.” “’Night Alex,” Derek said. “Goodnight Mom, goodnight Dad.”

Matt hung back as Odette and Derek left. “Goodnight, my angel. I love you,” he whispered as he lovingly kissed her cheek. “Goodnight Matt. I love you more,” she said as she returned the gesture.

After Matt left, Alex blushed and smiled to herself, feeling a little embarrassed. No one had ever referred to her as “my angel” before. To Alex, it felt strange, but, somehow, right. “Uggh,” she thought, “I’m absolutely lovesick.”

To clear her mind, Alex shook her head a bit. “Okay,” she thought, “I have to focus.” While reading the many books she’d found in the chamber that held The Guardian Sword (More commonly known as The Fang, after its first owner Lord Samuel, The Wolf), Alex learned that anyone who wielded the sword could perform minor magic, such as changing clothes without being anywhere near a wardrobe. Although it seemed to be a trivial skill, Alex wanted to learn how to do it. “It could be useful,” she thought. She cleared her head of all things other than what she was wearing and what she wanted to wear. When she was ready, she clapped her hands together once, and looked at herself to see what she was wearing.

The trick worked perfectly, and Alex smiled with satisfaction. She was wearing her nightgown, just as she’d wanted. After doing the trick a few more times, and succeeding Alex crawled into bed and fell asleep very proud of herself.

Alex woke up the next morning refreshed and ready for the day. After rubbing the sleep from her eyes and a quick clap of the hands, she walked down to the dining hall. As usual, she was awake first. It was just before dawn, and Alex always woke up that early. After jotting down a quick “good morning” note to her parents, she took off out the window. She jumped from roof to roof, lowering to the ground as she went.

After reaching the ground, Alex took off into the forest. She sprinted into the woods at amazing speeds. Alex loved to run. She loved the freedom she felt while running. Horseback riding was a Sunday Stroll compared to running for Alex. She loved feeling the wind in her face, and jumping high among-and above-the trees. “It shouldn’t be far now,” she thought. “There it is!”

In front of her was a stand of huge oak trees. These trees were so thick around that it would take at least five people to wrap around them. They stood, invincible, untouchable, in the middle of the forest. They reminded Alex of the castle, safe and protective. This was one of her favorite places in the world, and she went there every morning.

Alex stayed until the sun came up. Knowing Odette would want her home soon, she turned around and left. When she arrived at the castle, again through a window, everyone was awake. Alex sat down to breakfast with her family, enjoying the conversation. When breakfast was finished, Alex politely excused herself, and went to see Matt, who usually tended the horses at this time.

Matt smiled widely as Alex walked into the royal stable. He put down his brush and walked over to meet her. “Good morning,” he said as he threw his arms around her. “Hello,” Alex said, gladdened by such a warm reception. They were always glad to see each other, even though sometimes they didn’t have time, with Alex having to try to find Zelda (and anyone else who used The Forbidden Arts), and Matt having to train to become a knight. However, they always made time in the morning for each other, before things got too busy.

They talked for a while about the horses and Alex’s preference to run and a few other things before Matt had to leave. “Sorry,” he said, “I’ve got to help some of the knights, but I’ll be sure to see you later.” “I’ll miss you,” Alex replied, sad that he had to go. Matt pulled her closer for a kiss good bye, which Alex thought was too short, and they both left the stable.

Alex had nothing to do for the rest of the day, so she decided to find her mother. It didn’t take long to find her standing on a balcony that overlooked Derek and Bromley’s game of “catch and fire.” Alex jumped up to Odette’s side and leaned on the guard rail. “Hello Alex,” Odette said, smiling.

“Hi,” Alex greeted. “Who’s winning?”

Odette laughed quietly, “Who do you think?”

Alex grinned. She liked Bromley, but everyone in the kingdom knew he was an awful archer. Alex watched as her father expertly plucked the arrow from the air, turned around quickly, and shot with amazing accuracy. The apple, placed on Bromley’s head as a target for Derek, fell to his feet.

Derek noticed Alex for the first time when he turned around to see the results of his constant practice. “Want to try, Alex?” he asked. “I guess so…” she answered hesistantly. She jumped over the balcony, ten feet above the ground, and took the bow. “Here, put this on,” Derek suggested, handing her some armor for her back. Alex strapped it on, and turned away from Bromley, who stood trembling with an apple tied to his head. “Alright Alex,” Derek instructed, “All you have to do is catch the arrow when Bromley fires it at you. Then turn, aim at the apple, and shoot. Simple as that.” “Okay...” Alex was still a little hesitant, but there was no turning back now.

Alex stood still. She flexed her fingers on her right hand, then her left. “Hold it steady Brom,” she mumbled to herself, just as father had years ago. Her face then turned blank, and her ears slightly perked up. Finally, the arrow was flying at her full speed. At the last second, Alex turned around, caught the arrow, aimed, and shot. When Alex looked at Bromley, two perfect halves of apple lay at his feet.

Alex smirked slightly. She’d never played before, but she was just as good as her father on the first time. “Good shooting Alex,” Derek congratulated her on her perfect shot. Alex shrugged. “No big deal,” she said.

She spent the rest of the morning having fun, and practicing her archery, but that afternoon, on a walk, she met a new, unexpected friend.

“I’ll be back soon,” Alex said as she left, this time out a door instead of a window. She started toward Swan Lake. Her favorite place to walk was around the beautiful, clear lake. She started on the bank closest to the castle, and began working her way around it. She was going a steady, relaxed pace when she heard footsteps behind her.

Alex stopped to listen, but they had stopped. When she turned around, there was no one there. “I’m either crazy,” she thought, “or someone is following me, and hiding it.” She kept walking, pretending like she wasn’t alert. Again the footsteps started and this time, Alex knew someone was following her. She whirled around and drew her sword. “Show yourself!” she challenged.

She heard a low whine coming from the shrubs that surrounded the lake. Now she was a little confused. She was sure whatever was following her was human, but this whine didn’t sound human. “Come on,” she beckoned, this time relaxing her voice a bit.

Finally, out of the bushes, came a dog. Alex sighed in relief. She then rolled her eyes, annoyed at getting so worked up over a dog.

The dog was pretty good sized, reaching up to Alex’s hip. It was black with a spot of white on the top of its head. “Go home,” Alex said, waving her hand to shoo it away. The dog didn’t respond, but instead stood and stared at her. “Okay…” she sighed and walked away. When she looked behind her, the dog was following her. “And now it’s following me,” she muttered. “Go home!” she repeated, louder this time. The dog persisted. “I don’t have any food, mutt.” The dog continued to walk toward her, and despite herself, Alex held out her hand.

When it reached her hand, the dog licked it and nudged himself under it so that Alex found herself petting the dog. “Aww come on,” Alex muttered as she wiped dog slobber from her hand. When she turned to leave, again the dog followed. “Okay,” she thought, “I’m just going to keep walking and ignore the dog.”

That plan worked, for a little while. The dog, no matter what Alex did, followed her. Even after she was halfway around the lake, the dog was right behind her. Finally, when she was back where she started, she paid attention to the dog. “Wow,” she said to the dog as she knelt down. “You really are persistent.” The dog wagged its tail and Alex petted him. “Come on boy; let’s see what Mom and Dad think of you.”

Alex turned around to walk home and the dog followed close behind. “What am I going to call you?” Alex asked him. The dog’s only response was a bark. “Bark? I’m not to sure I like that. How about Jasper?” The dog barked and wagged his tail, which hit Alex every time he did so. “Okay. Jasper it is.”

Alex unexpectedly met her parents outside near the private door they all used. This was good and bad at the same time. Alex hated asking for things from her parents (it just bothered her), and now she had no time to prepare anything to say. On the other hand, she also had no time to get too nervous and not ask at all. Now that they’d seen Jasper, it was too late. “Where did he come from?” Derek asked casually.

“I don’t know, he just started following me.”

They were all interrupted as Rogers came rushing toward them. “Derek!” he called, frantically waving a letter. “A message from the King of Jameshire!” “Let me go and deal with this,” Derek mumbled, a little annoyed at Rogers’s constant interruptions. “I’ll see you two later.

Alex watched him go as Jasper rubbed his head against her leg. “You wanted to talk about something?” Odette inquired. “Ready for the cliché?” Alex muttered.

“What do you mean?”

Alex looked down at Jasper, who was remaining still and quiet. “Can I keep him?” she finally asked.

”I don’t know… does he bite?”

Alex shrugged, “Not so far.”

“Is he trained?”

“Let’s see,” Alex replied. “Jasper, sit.” The dog sat down immediately. “Lay down,” Odette said, also wanting to see if Jasper would listen. Obediently, the down hit the ground and put his head between his paws. He looked up at Odette with sad eyes that seemed to say “please let her keep me. I’ll be good.” Odette smiled and petted Jasper. “Alright Alex, you can keep him. But he’s your responsibility.” “Of course,” Alex replied happily.

“By the way, what’s his name?”

“Jasper.”

Alex spent the next few days just relaxing around the castle, waiting until she was needed for something a little more exciting. Her favorite place-and Jasper’s-was the orchard that wasn’t too far from the castle. There were white marble benches to sit and an abundance of both sunlight and shade. Her favorite thing to do was play fetch with Jasper, who was a natural at the game. One after noon Odette needed to talk to her, but couldn’t find her.

“Derek,” she asked, “have you seen Alex? I can’t find her anywhere.” Odette had looked all over for Alex, and still Alex couldn’t be found. It was as if she had disappeared off the face of the Earth. “She’s in the apple orchard. Why, what’s wrong?”

“Nothings wrong. I just wanted to tell her about our upcoming trip.” Derek smiled, “She’s not going to be happy about it.”

“Probably not, it’ll take some persuasion.”

“Not from you.”

“What do you mean?” Odette asked thinking it was an insult.

“I mean that Alex will do just about anything you ask. If you say ‘jump’ she’d ask how high.”

“I don’t know about that.”

Derek chuckled. “How do you think you got her to actually show up at that ball?”

“I asked nicely.” Again Derek was chuckling. “Do you think if I were to ask she’d even listen?”

“Yes, I think she would,” Odette still couldn’t understand what he was getting at. “She listens to you, Odette, probably more than anyone else.” Odette rolled her eyes. “Never mind, it doesn’t even matter. I’ll go and find her.”

Alex, as Derek had said, was sitting in the orchard, and of all things, juggling apples.

Odette watched for a few minutes as Alex methodically threw and caught each apple in the air. She made it look easy. She never lost her concentration as Jasper, who was lying with his head resting on her foot, picked up his head and barked. “I didn’t know you were in the circus before we met,” Odette joked. One by one, Alex threw each apple into a nearby basket and smirked. “I wasn’t, but you’d be surprised by how much time I had to learn.” Jasper sat up and put his head on Alex’s knee and she petted him.

“Anyway,” Alex said, “was there something you wanted to talk about?” Odette sat beside her and said, “You know the other day when Rogers gave your father that message from the King of Jameshire?” “Yeah I do. Rogers looked like he was about to lose it,” Alex grinned humorously.

“Well… There’s a reason for that.”

Alex lifted one eyebrow and looked at her mother, concerned. “What’s the reason? Is something wrong?” Alex’s eyebrows furrowed at the thought of something being wrong. “If anyone made a threat…” she thought. Odette, seeing Alex’s distress, quickly answered, “No, no… Nothing’s wrong. King Gregory, the king of Jameshire, invited us to his castle, and I think we should go.”

“Wait… Do you mean King Gregory as in Princess Lauren’s father?” Alex rolled her eyes.

“Yes. Why? Have you met her?” Alex again rolled her eyes, “Oh yeah. I’ve met her.” Odette laughed a little, “Not exactly an enlightening experience was it?”

“Nope.”

“Anyway,” Odette began, “We should go to Jameshire, just to be courteous.” “And you want me to go too?” Alex surmised. “Yes. It won’t be that bad,” Odette promised. Alex thought a moment. “Oh no. I’m not spending the night in a kingdom whose princess will inevitably kill me with her jabbering.”

“Please Alex… come with us.”

Alex turned her head toward the forest and stared. Now it was Odette’s turn to feel alarmed. “What do you see?” Alex grinned mischievously, “Nothing. I just find it a whole lot easier to say no to you when I’m not looking at you.” Odette playfully tried to get Alex to look at her by putting her face in front of Alex’s. “Please, please, please,” she said. Finally, Alex relented, “Alright, alright. I’ll go with you. When do we leave?”

Odette smiled triumphantly. “Tomorrow.”

“Think you waited long enough to tell me?” Alex asked sarcastically. Odette was used to it though, and came back with a short “No.”

“Maybe your father is right however.”

“What?”

“It’s nothing,” Odette replied as she walked off.

The next day, Alex, Matt, Odette, and Derek were ready to leave. It would be a two day ride to the port, where Derek and Odette’s personal ship was kept, and a three day sail to Jameshire. They were just about to leave when Alex realized she’d forgotten The Fang.

“Come on Alex, it’s time to go!” Odette called to Alex, who was in her room. “Okay!” Alex called back. Finally she appeared on her balcony, grinning. She leaped to the nearest rooftop and then onto the next. In a matter of seconds, she was standing by Odette. “Showoff,” she muttered jokingly and Alex laughed. “Alex,” Odette said, now serious, “are you sure you’ll need that?” Alex nodded, “With my luck, I’ll be using this the second we leave the castle gates.

Alex and Odette walked off to join Matt and Derek, who were waiting at the gate with the carriage. Matt was mounted on his white bronco, and Derek was leaning against the carriage. “Everyone ready?” he asked. After a fervent “Yes” from everyone they were off. When her parents stepped into the carriage, instead of following, Alex gave a mock salute and was off, moving faster than the horses. After leading off about 30 feet ahead, Alex stopped and waited for the others. When they reached her, instead of rushing, she instead kept pace with them, and a few times jumping over the carriage as it moved.

The land portion of the trip was uneventful, the most exciting part being when they stopped at an inn for the night, where Alex talked about when she worked as a serving girl. When they reached port however, things were a little more stimulating.

“Alex stay with us or you’ll get lost,” Odette warned. Alex replied, “Mom I think you’ve forgotten how old I am.”

“I know, sorry. I just… I never feel safe around here, that’s all.”

“And now you’ve forgotten who you’re with,” Alex said, smirking a little. “Here’s the ship!” Derek called. It was a massive vessel, with a mast that touched the sky. The sails looked like great white walls of canvas, and the riggings looked like giant nets. The crew wasn’t as amazing as they stood on deck behind the captain. They were men of all different sizes, but they all looked the same in their uniforms. The captain looked more interesting, however, dressed in a white shirt and blue pants with a sword hanging at his side.

The crew bowed as Derek, Odette, Alex, and Matt reached the boarding plank. Some got off the ship as they gathered the luggage. The captain walked over to greet them. “Welcome aboard the Dragon’s Reverie!” he boomed. “I am Captain Lorcain Witco. I hope your majesties enjoy your trip.” “Thank you Captain,” Odette said politely. When Captain Lorcain saw Alex, he grew bright red. “Um…Your Majesties, I um…didn’t prepare for the young lady to come. I don’t have a bed for her,” he stuttered. “I do have an extra room however,” he added quickly, “She’ll just have to sleep on a hammock.” Lorcain was sure he was about to get fired or punished. Instead, to his surprise, Alex shrugged. “That’s okay,” she said, “I’ve slept on worse.”

Lorcain was visibly happy that he was not going to be thrown in prison. “All right you men! Enough gawking, it’s time to leave. Get to work!” he winked at Alex as he barked orders to different men. While the ship was being cast off, she decided to inspect her room. It had a small porthole, and, as anticipated, a hammock. There was also a desk, with a writing quill and parchment, a mirror, and small closet-like space for clothes. Alex threw down her luggage, knowing there was no point in unpacking; a simple clap of her hands would allow her to change clothes in the blink of an eye.

She wandered back up to the main deck, and watched the crew for a bit. Most of them were busy calling instructions and orders to each other, and others were doing more mundane tasks like mopping the deck. Everyone who saw her stopped immediately and smiled, but some were staring in stunned silence at some other members of the crew, who were standing in a circle talking.

A man, a small snippet thing of a man, was ranting about something Alex could not here until she walked a bit closer. “I’m telling you, queen or not, princess or not, those two are bad luck,” he said. “A ship is no place for a woman! Especially the Queen! There’s no way she could ever take care of herself. At least the little princess looks slightly more useful.” Alex closed her eyes, crossed her arms, and cleared her throat loudly. Every man there turned around and gawked at her.

“What was that?” Alex asked coldly, without emotion. “I ain’t afraid of you,” the man said, fear thick in his eyes and voice. Alex snapped her eyes open, revealing the ice blue anger that lay beneath. Although her emotions were clear in her eyes, her voice remained calm and cold. “You really ought to watch your mouth,” she warned. “It really bothers me when people insult my mother.” There was so much poison in Alex’s voice the man’s jaw dropped.

Just as coolly as she’d walked up, Alex turned on her heal and left the unfortunate sailor standing there, staring in awe. Odette joined her a few minutes later, smiling as always. Alex couldn’t help but smirk back. She was always glad to see Odette. “So how’s the trip going for you so far?” Odette asked casually. “Pretty well, so far,” Alex replied. “I have found a new issue to fight against, other than the Forbidden Arts.”

“What’s that?”

Alex shot an angry glance toward the sailor and loudly said, “Pigheadedness!” Captain Lorcain, hearing Alex’s exclamation, walked over to them. “Is there a problem?” he asked, concerned. “Apparently,” Odette answered, “one of your men isn’t exactly civil.” “Ahhh, I was worried about that,” he muttered. “Lombard, right?”

“Tiny guy, irritating voice?” Alex asked.

“That’s him.”

Odette and Alex watched as he walked off. “Well, he’s a goner,” Alex muttered. Odette didn’t say anything, Alex shrugged. “Not my problem,” she thought. “He should’ve kept his mouth shut.” She knew better to say that aloud. Odette wasn’t always found of her bad temper. Instead she smiled, “You know, this is my first time on a ship.” “First time? Really?” Odette asked in surprise. “I’ve read about them a lot, but this is my first time on a ship. It’s amazing.”

“Until you get seasick,” Odette muttered.

It didn’t take long for Alex to become bored; fortunately, it was late afternoon when she, her parents, and Matt arrived at the docks. She retired to her room early and went to sleep. It was early morning when she woke up, and most of the crew was still asleep. Just then, Alex became brave, and maybe a little stupid.

Seeing how the bowsprit (the front most part of the bow) protruded far away from the main hull, she climbed onto it. With arms spread to her side for balance, she walked onto the end, only inches away from falling into the ocean. But she didn’t notice. What she really noticed was the wind whipping her hair around wildly.

“Derek,” Odette asked as she searched for Alex, “where’s Alex? I’ve looked all over for her.” “I don’t know I haven’t seen her either,” he replied.

“She’s good at disappearing.” They walked up to the main deck, where Derek was the first to spot her. “Look,” he pointed. Alex was still standing on the bowsprit. The only part of her that had moved was her hair, which was wrapping and unwrapping itself around her face. “Alex come down!” Odette called to her, worried that she might fall. Alex, upon hearing her mother’s voice, jerked her head in Odette’s direction. In one mighty jump, she landed on the bow of the ship, safe on solid wood.

“Don’t do that, please. You could drown if you fall. That scared me,” Odette said. Alex, who was ready to defend her actions, hung her head low in apology. “I’m sorry,” she said, regret thick in her voice. For some reason, Alex hated disappointing her mother. Normally she wouldn’t care, but for some reason, she always found herself apologizing to her mother.

On the other hand, Odette hated making Alex feel guilty, especially when she hadn’t really done anything wrong. “Alex,” Odette said, “don’t take it so hard. Everyone messes up sometimes, especially at your age.”

“I ought to know better,” Alex muttered. Odette was sometimes surprised by Alex’s words, and having no prepared response, she let it drop. Their thoughts were interrupted as a crewman shouted, “Pirates! Off the starboard side.” Alex’s attention was pulled to the right side of the ship. In the distance, and fast approaching, was a ship with black sails. Alex gazed angrily and clapped her hands. She appeared in the same set of clothes, a black pair of pants, grey boots, and a white shirt, but this time she had The Fang hanging by her side. Matt ran up to her, clutching his own sword in his hand. “I knew this trip wasn’t going to remain peaceful.”

“Yeah,” Alex responded, “I was hoping we could make it there and back without having to fight too much. Guess I was wrong.”

In a few minutes, the pirate ship, appropriately named The Rebel was very close. Alex, Matt, and Derek, who borrowed a sword from the ship’s armory, were more than ready.The four, as Odette was standing beside them, stood poised and ready on the deck. Alex was first to move saw that some of the pirates were trying to swing from ropes onto The Dragon’s Reverie. She jumped into the rigging of the ship, cut a rope free and successfully cut down enemy ropes as the pirates tried to swing across. Alex smirked as she saw some of them fall into the water.

She landed back on deck just as a huge plank of wood fell and pirates began to cross over to the ship. Alex beat off a few of them, but it seemed as if they would just keep coming.

For the second time that day, Alex became really brave and a little stupid. She jumped over the plank, and onto The Rebel. She fought a few pirates as she made her way to the ship’s wheel. She steered the pirate ship away from The Dragon’s Reverie, smirking as she watched the plank fall into the sea.

Again Alex jumped this time landing back on her own ship. The crew cheered as she landed and congratulated her on a job well done. But there were still pirates on the ship, and Alex had no intention on letting them win. She, Matt, and Derek were fighting hard against the bandits, and even Odette got some as she tripped a pirate who was about to bring his sword down on Alex’s back. Alex turned and punched the man hard in the face, sending him flying backwards. She then smirked at Odette, “Go mom,” she joked. “Behind you!” Odette warned as another pirate was about to strike. This time, Alex swung her sword at the man so hard that when he parried the blow, he was knocked into the water.

A few minutes later, all the pirates were gone and the men were cheering, most of them cheering for Alex. But, among the shouts of happiness, Alex could hear something else. She held up her hand for silence, which she quickly received, and gasped as she realized what she was hearing. A man was calling for help, from the water below. Alex quickly stuck her sword into the wood of the deck, tied a rope around her belt and, before anyone could ask what she was doing, she dove, straight down, into the sea.

The black water was cold when Alex hit it, but she ignored it. It didn’t take long for her to spot the drowning sailor. It was Lombard, the man who had insulted her before. “Of course,” Alex thought with scorn. She swam over to him and wrapped her arm around his waist. “Pull us up!” Alex called to the rest of the crew, who she knew was watching and listening in amazement. She grabbed the rope with her free hand and felt a jerk as they were pulled out of the water.

Alex and Lombard hit the deck harder than she hoped after she cut the rope from her belt. She and the now lucky sailor hit the wood as the rest of the crew came to check on them. Alex was okay, standing up as soon as she could get some room. Lombard was not in such good shape, but he was alive. “Thank you,” he said amazed that he was still breathing, “you really risked your life saving me like that.” “No,” Alex replied, “trust me; your life isn’t worth me risking mine.” The crew laughed at the dark humor. Alex truly didn’t mind saving the man, as she could tell he’d seen the error of his ways. “I guess it is good luck to have a woman on board!” someone joked.

Alex spent the better part of that day answering questions and thanking people for the compliments she received. Finally, after Alex had said multiple times that she was busy, the captain had to shoo the men away.

And so, the sun set on the second day, but instead of going to sleep early, Alex stayed outside, on deck, and watched the sun go down. It was beautiful, with streaks of gold, purple, and pink bleeding across the dark blue sky.

“Gorgeous isn’t it?” someone beside her asked. It was Matt. Alex smiled; she loved the way he could just appear seemingly out of nowhere. Matt looked straight into her eyes, holding her perfectly still, “But it doesn’t hold a candle to you.” Alex blushed. At the same time, she loved and hated when he told her things like that. She moved closer to him, and he put his arm around her waist. It didn’t bother her one bit. For some reason, Alex felt safe around Matt. She’d never needed anybody’s protection, but Matt always made her feel safe, calm, and invincible.

Alex rested her head on Matt’s shoulder. “What a day,” she muttered. Matt chuckled, “You’re the one who just had to show off.” Alex laughed with him, “I know I’m eccentric, but,” she became serious, “I’d rather fight, and possibly get hurt or worse, than allow anyone to threaten my family in any way.” Matt nodded his head and pulled her closer. “I understand what you mean,” he said as he spun her around to meet his eyes, “but as long as I’m here, I swear nobody will ever hurt you.” He bent down and kissed her.

When they stopped kissing, Alex returned her head to his shoulder. “I love you,” she whispered.

“I love you too.”

On the last day, nothing exciting happened until someone saw land. Alex, her parents, and Matt, got off the ship and rode in a waiting carriage to King Gregory’s castle.

Alex, who’d ended up falling asleep, knew they had arrived when she awoke to a Thack on her head. “Why do you let me fall asleep like that?” Alex asked, head throbbing. Odette fought a smile, “Sorry, Alex.” Alex smiled, “Oh well, I at least I don’t have to ask if we’re there yet.”

Alex clapped her hands together to change. She was now wearing a dress, which was more appropriate than her shirt and pants. The dress was plain, hunter green with a silver belt. All four got out of the carriage and with Derek and Odette walking ahead, and a few footmen bringing up the rear, they walked up to the castle’s receiving hall.

They were welcomed warmly. King Gregory and Princess Lauren walked up to them, smiling (though Lauren’s was undoubtedly fake). “Welcome to Jameshire,” the king boomed. Alex, Odette, and Lauren politely curtsied. Matt and Derek bowed low. “I’ll give you all some time to freshen up,” King Gregory said. He snapped his fingers and three maids walked over. “They will show you to your rooms and come for you at dinner. We’re going to have a private dinner tonight, and a more formal dinner tomorrow, once you’re better rested.”

“This way milady,” one of the maids said to Alex, as she walked down a long, wide hallway. The hallway narrowed as they walked, until finally, they came to Alex’s room. “Thank you,” Alex said, dismissing the maid. “I’ll be by again to fetch you for dinner,” the maid replied. Again Alex thanked her and surveyed her temporary room. There was, of course, a bed, with a canopy, a desk, complete with writing utensils, like on the ship, and a window that held a perfect view of a forest beyond the castle walls.

Alex also decided to explore the rest of the castle. She discovered an extensive library, a huge dining room, and Matt’s room wasn’t far from her own. This made her happy, as she felt insecure in her new surroundings.

Unfortunately for Matt, this new place was a huge problem. Princess Lauren, he noticed, had passed him some eyes and now she wouldn’t leave him alone. Nobody from Chamberg saw each other that night, as they spent the rest of the afternoon resting and dinner was brought to them, so there was no way to ask for help without disturbing Alex or her parents.

The next day, Alex explored the castle again, and came upon a most disturbing sight when she decided to check on Matt. It was Lauren, and Matt. Alex couldn’t believe it. Lauren was actually hugging Matt. Even after seeing it, Alex still couldn’t believe it. All she could do was back out of the room slowly. Matt literally pushed Lauren off of him, and ran out the door after Alex, who was already halfway down the hallway.

“Alex! Wait!” he called to her. She didn’t look back or even slow down. “Alex! I’m begging you,” he pleaded, “please stop!” Finally, she did stop, but she didn’t turn around. Matt caught up with her quickly. “Alex,” he said as he tried to catch his breath, “that was not what it looked like.”

“Then what was it Matt?!” she yelled, whirling around to meet his eyes. “What was it? If you don’t love me anymore, you could just tell me instead of sneaking around behind my back. Honestly, you could give me a little more of a hint, at least.” She crossed her arms and turn back around, eyes closed. “Will you at least give me a chance to defend myself?” he asked, keeping his voice even and calm.

Alex turned her head slightly, “Alright, what? What’s your side?” Matt took a deep breath. “Alex,” he began, but before he could continue, he groaned, “Let me make this a bit easier.” He spun Alex around, just as he had done on the ship. “Listen to me. I could never ever leave you, especially not for someone like Lauren. I love you, don’t you understand that? I need you right here with me.” Alex blushed, “I’m sorry. I just… I should’ve believed you. It’s not you, it’s me. I just… don’t want to lose you.” Matt chuckled, “Ha, you silly insecure girl, you don’t need to worry about losing me to Lauren!”

So, with everything fixed between them Alex and Matt walked to dinner hand in hand.

Alex and Matt walked into one of the many dining rooms. They were the last two to arrive. “Sorry we’re late,” Alex apologized. “We couldn’t find the right dining room.” King Gregory chuckled, “The castle is very extensive. Don’t worry, we weren’t waiting long.” Matt pulled out a chair so Alex could sit down on the end of the table. He took a seat next to her. King Gregory sat on the other end of the table with Lauren. Alex’s parents were seated in the middle of the table. Dinner was served shortly after Matt and Alex sat down.

For Alex and Matt, the meal was tense and strained. Alex was sitting almost directly across from Lauren, who was staring at her intently. Matt, under the table, so as not to be seen, placed his hand on Alex’s knee to calm her. Alex calmed down, but she was by no means relaxed. She was still very rigid. “How dare she try to ruin what’s mine,” she thought. “I know I’m not the most welcome person here, but she could at least be civil.”

Alex became even more tense when Lauren began to talk to her. “So what was the orphanage like?” Just like at the ball when they first met, Lauren said the word “orphanage” in a very pompous tone. Alex, as politely as she could, told about the orphanage, although it wasn’t the best or easiest topic of conversation for her.

When she was finished Lauren, again in a very snide tone, remarked, “Well, it must have been terrible. But then again, if your parents had been more careful…” Alex shot straight out of her chair, knocking it to the ground. “What did you say?!” she asked, knowing the answer. “Well I only meant, if they would have been more careful, maybe a little less foolish.” Now it was Odette, Derek, and Gregory’s turn to be shocked and angry. “Lauren!” Gregory exclaimed, “How dare you insult our guests. I’ll…”

Just then, Alex began to change. “You pampered palace brat,” she growled. Her eyes began to turn red and she was crouched low. Even her hair was changing from its normal straightness to being wild and out of control. “I’ll make you pay!” she yelled drawing The Fang from its sheath. Suddenly Matt, Derek, and Odette were near her, seeing that she was losing control. “Alex calm down,” Matt pleaded. Alex was still growling ferociously, and now she was lifting The Fang to strike. Matt was holding her arm, knowing that one blow would kill Lauren, or anyone else near enough, “Alex, I implore you, return to your senses!”

“Get out of my way! It’s time for this spoiled brat to learn a lesson!” Odette jumped in front of Alex, holding her shoulders, “Please Alex, stop this! You mustn’t do this!”

“I warned you.” Suddenly, with blinding speed and without holding back, Alex swung The Fang at Odette, missing only because Matt pushed her back. Fortunately, Alex returned to her normal self, but then she realized what she had done, and what she was about to do. She was frozen and confused for a second, but then she threw down The Fang. “I’m so sorry,” she said, a tear flowing out of her right eye. “I’m so sorry,” she repeated as she ran out the nearest window, sobbing.

Alex ran and ran, away from what she’d done. She ran through the forest near the castle, barely able to dodge the roots and branches through her tears. She ran deeper and deeper into the woods, ignoring any possibility of danger. She continued to run, even though it began to rain, and soon after, storm. Lightning flashed across the sky, and thunder shook the trees, but Alex didn’t notice. She just kept going.

Alex finally had to stop when she tripped on a root. She fell on her face into the cold mud, turned on her shoulder, and just laid there. She was still crying, only now her emotional torment was accompanied by physical agony. “If there is any mercy in this world,” she prayed, “please, please let me die here. If anyone can see how sorry I am, let me die here.” She knew her prayers were pointless, but she still hoped. She was in such pain, death would be a release. “I nearly killed my mother,” she thought with miserable disgust, “I deserve to die. Would it really be so bad if I did?”

That night, she had the worst dream imaginable. She was fighting Zelda and finally had her cornered. Zelda, however, was still fighting. Then Alex began to change. Her wild hair and red eyes returned as she leapt at Zelda. One thing Alex didn’t understand was why Zelda’s face was blurry. Either way, Alex swung her sword and at last killed Zelda, the very person that had caused her so much pain. But there was something strange afoot; the body was all wrong. Alex walked over to it and turned over the body to be sure it was Zelda she’d just killed.

It wasn’t. It was Odette. Alex was confused and heartbroken. She had just killed her own mother, the person she always tried to protect. It was like someone had ripped her heart out of her chest. She couldn’t breathe and woke up screaming “No!” to anything that would listen. In rage and hatred of herself, she ran over to a large oak tree and punched it over and over again. Finally, with her knuckles bloodied, she fell into a miserable slumber.

Alex awoke the next morning confused on the forest floor, with a sword in her face.

“Who are you?” Alex demanded, jumping up. When she looked around, she could see that she was surrounded. “My master will be pleased that we have captured such a dangerous criminal,” one of the men cackled.

“I think you’ve got me confused with someone else. I haven’t done anything.”

“Silence!” the man barked. Alex was about to talk back when, suddenly, she was hit with something blunt over the head, knocking her out instantly.

The men, three of them in number, were merciless. Instead of bringing her directly to the town’s prison, they drug her by the arms, letting her feet drag, through the city. She awoke once, but was quickly beaten back into unconsciousness by one of the men. The crowd even cheered as they passed. No one recognized the battered princess.

Finally, Alex was thrown into a cell in a prison and chained to the walls. She was far too hurt to ask questions, and instead fell into a sleep brought on by her extensive injuries, emotional and physical.

The next day, one of the prison guards walked up to her cell. “I don’t know what a lass like you did to wind up in here,” he said, “but whatever it was, you got the death penalty for it. Tomorrow, you will be put to death.” Alex didn’t even look at the man. Nothing she said could save her. She truly believed she was doomed.

Toward the afternoon, however, a spark of hope came to her. Her parents and Matt came for her. “Let her out,” Odette said to the guard.

“Milady, I cannot let this girl go without a written permit. As much as I would like to, I can’t.”

“There must be something you can do,” Odette pleaded. “I’m sorry,” the man replied, “but I am bound by the law, as are we all.”

“But the law is wrong, she didn’t do anything.”

“There’s nothing I can do. But you may talk to her if you like.”

Alex didn’t look up when her family approached. She couldn’t bring herself to look into their eyes, especially Odette’s. She was sure it would kill her. “Alex,” Derek said, breaking the silence, “we will get you out. Don’t worry.” He passed his hand through the bars and touched her hair. Alex looked at him and half smiled. She was right, it did hurt, but she had to. “Alex, what’s wrong?” Odette asked, seeing the look on her daughter’s face when the smile disappeared.

What wasn’t wrong for Alex? Odette and Alex chuckled darkly when they realized they’d both had the same thought. “I’m…,” Alex hesitated, now serious again, “I’m to be executed.” Odette gasped and Matt and Derek were alarmed.

“When? Why?” Derek demanded. Alex remained calm and said, “Tomorrow, but I don’t know why.” Matt became very angry. “They can’t just do this to you,” he said. “Come on, let’s go get that permit.”

“We’ll try to be back before tomorrow, Alex,” Odette promised. “Before tomorrow?” Alex asked, confused.

“Do you have any idea of how far you ran? Don’t worry, we’ll be back.” And with that, they were gone, and Alex didn’t have a chance to apologize. “Hurry,” she thought.

Alex woke up to a raging headache and the sunlight pouring directly onto her face. “Well, here it is,” she thought, “what could possibly be my last day on Earth.” Her head was still throbbing and now her back hurt from sleeping on the hard stone on the cell floor. She slumped against the wall, “If only I had time to apologize. I at least owe them that.” “Come on you,” the guard said, pulling her out of her thoughts, “It’s time.”

The guard led Alex to a huge courtyard. There was quite a crowd. “Probably waiting for a free show,” Alex thought with scorn. In the center of the courtyard was a wooden platform with stairs leading up to it. Around the edges were benches and guards wearing armor. Alex began to hesitate. The guard noticed this and pushed her a bit, “Don’t be nervous, it’ll all be over soon.”

Alex was about to trip him and bolt, but an executioner walked over. He was wearing a black mask and no shirt. He was scarred all over, making look even more frightening. He used one huge hand and grabbed Alex around the neck. “Come on,” he rasped, “You’re next.” He led Alex up the platform steps and nearer to a chopping block. Again Alex hesitated. “Keep moving,” he said. “You are no princess. Not anymore.”

Alex gasped. So he did know who she was! “Why you-” she began, but was stopped when the executioner slapped her hard across the face. “Shut up!” he ordered. Alex, on top of being defiant, was also not moving fast enough for the executioner. “Move it!” he yelled, pushing her hard down onto the platform, in front of the chop block. Alex cried out as she felt the splinters from the wood shoot up into her knees.

Odette and Matt were watching the entire thing in horror. “Please stop this,” Odette begged the guard in charge. “There is nothing I can do,” The guard said. “Please!” Odette repeated. Out the corner of her eye, Odette could see Alex get slapped. “Let her go!” Matt ordered. The guard stood up, “You are not in charge here. I am! You do not give me orders.” Now Alex was on the platform floor near the chop block.

“I can’t take this anymore!” Matt yelled and was off.

Alex was now kneeling over the chop block and the executioner was now lifting the axe. Alex spotted her mother and became stock still, like a statue. She could almost feel the axe that was now hurtling toward her neck. Suddenly, Alex heard the clang of metal on metal. She turned to see what was happening. It was Matt, blocking the axe with his sword, with one hand. “No,” was all he said to the executioner. The executioner lifted the axe again, and again, Matt was blocking it. “I said no.”

With one flick of his sword, the axe flew out of the executioner’s hand. The now unarmed would be murderer ran away, but taking his place were several armored guards. “Alex, hold out your wrists!” Matt commanded. Alex, of course complied, and with one swing, the chains that were being used to bind Alex, fell to the ground.

“Thanks Matt,” Alex said gratefully. “I brought you a present,” he said, holding out something in his hand. Alex took it. It was The Fang. She almost didn’t want to use it, but then again she was grateful for it. “Thank you,” she said again.

They were both surrounded with no escape. After a few tense seconds, a guard swung his sword at Alex, which she easily blocked. Both of them knew Alex could beat them all if she wanted, but Alex really didn’t want to resort to that. “Matt, listen. Don’t kill these men. They’re only following orders.”

“Does that include the executioner?” Matt asked, thinking of how he had bolted once the guards came.

“No. He knew who I was.”

“Then I should have killed him when I had the chance,” Matt muttered with scorn, just before a guard struck at him with a mace.

“Guards, stop!” a familiar voice commanded. It was King Gregory and Derek; they had, at last, arrived. “Finally,” Alex whispered in relief. “Put your swords away,” Gregory continued, “These two are not criminals.” The guards obediently put their swords in their sheaths. Alex and Matt, however, were still poised and ready for a fight. “Alex, Matt,” Derek added, knowing they were not going to move unless he commanded it, “It’s okay. Put those away.”

Like the guards, Alex and Matt stood up straight and put their swords away. “Alex,” Matt said, “you said the executioner knew who you were?” “It’s okay,” Gregory cut in. “He’s been apprehended. You don’t need to worry about him.” Alex felt weak and exhausted. She felt so drained of energy, she was barely listening to her parents. “Alex? Alex?” Odette asked.

“Huh? Oh, yes?”

“I was asking if you were okay.”

“Just exhausted. That’s all.”

“Don’t worry,” Derek reassured her, “we’ll be home soon, and you can rest as much as you need.”

“Derek!” Gregory interjected. “She is in no condition to travel. I ask you, if only for her sake, stay here until she is well enough.” Derek complied, and they all departed from the platform. As they walked, Matt positioned himself so that no one would be able to get to Alex without going through him first. He didn’t want anyone to hurt her anymore. A few times, some of the guards got to close, and Matt reached for his sword in warning. Needless to say, they backed away without protest.

Alex spent the rest of that day sleeping on and off. Odette was very worried about her, as she had some cuts and bruises from falling and being beaten so badly. Odette went into Alex’s room the next night to talk to her.

“Alex?” Odette called softly as she knocked on Alex’s door. Alex, who had been laying on her bed deep in thought, stood up. “Come in,” she called back, though she wasn’t sure if she was ready to talk to her mother. She still felt guilty about trying to attack her own mother. The pain still ate away at her.

Odette walked in quietly. “Hello Alex,” she said. “Hello mother,” Alex said coldly, though she did not mean for it to be rude.

“How are you?”

Alex took a deep breath, “Now or never,” she thought. “My body is okay, but my heart and mind are still… unwell.” Although there was no emotion behind her words, Alex spoke smoothly and deliberately, unwilling to lose control again. Odette was silent. She had never seen Alex this way. Alex wasn’t sulking, but she was miserable and depressed. “She’s in a lot of pain,” Odette thought. “Alex…” Odette began, but she could not get past that. There were just no words worthy of what they were both feeling.

“Mom,” Alex said, “I’ve got to apologize for… what I’ve done. I lost control, and I almost hurt you, and that is… unforgivable.”

“Alex I… it wasn’t your fault. I read in one of your books that that happens. Sometimes people who use The Fang lose control. It doesn’t last long, and it doesn’t happen often. You’re not perfect and I for one don’t expect you to be.” Alex looked down to the floor in shame.

“I should’ve controlled myself. I cannot ignore what happened and there’s no excuse for it.” Odette reached her hand out to put it on Alex’s shoulder, but Alex retracted. “Alex, please don’t be angry with yourself,” Odette said.

Alex shook her head. “I can’t let myself hurt you.”

“You don’t need to worry about me.”

“Yes I do. You’re so… fragile. Like a glass figurine. I could break you, too easily, and that scares me.” Alex began to think a moment and continued, “When I got my powers, things began to get harder for me. Not emotionally, but physically. You see, the problem is, I can now break anything, and that includes you. If anything were to happen to you because of me, I don’t know if I could handle that.” She was now crying a little bit.

Odette put her hands on Alex’s shoulders but instead of backing off, she looked away from her mother’s eyes. She couldn’t bring herself to look into them as she normally did. “Alex, you don’t need to worry about me. You’re my daughter, and I love you. Nothing will change my love for you. And nothing you say or do will keep me away from you.”

“How can you trust me? How can you know that I won’t just snap and hurt you, maybe even kill you?”

“I can trust that you would never do it on purpose. And I can trust that you would fight for control before you let it happen.”

“And I can trust that if I ever do something awful like that, I won’t be far behind you.” Odette knew exactly what Alex meant, though she did not like it. Alex was being so serious and it was unnerving. “I’ve been through a lot in 17 years, but nothing compares to the pain that I felt that night. I wanted to die. I was so weak and miserable. Worst of all, I ran away. I ran away like a coward who couldn’t face up to what she’d done. That makes me sick that I did that to you.”

Now Odette had enough. “Alex stop this. You can’t feel so guilty for something beyond your control. Stop beating yourself up over it.”

“So you’re not angry?”

“No.”

“Scared?”

“Of course not, Alex.”

Alex rolled her eyes, “You’re a glutton for punishment, do you know that?” Odette laughed. “I guess I am, but I can’t help it. Besides, I could never be afraid of you. You’re not scary.”

Alex rolled her eyes again, and was serious.“I’m going to go out for a little while okay? Just to clear my head.”

“Go ahead, but be back soon. I don’t want to bail you out of prison again.”

Alex left out the window into the night. Although she knew Alex would be out late, Odette decided to wait up for her. She sat down in a chair that was near the desk in the room.

Alex walked around the castle a few times, which took until about an hour before sunrise. Finally, when dawn’s first light was pouring into her room, Alex returned, and discovered Odette still there.

Alex tapped her mother on the shoulder, “Mom?”

“Hmmm,” Odette murmured, “Alex is that you?”

“Yeah it’s Alex. Did you wait up for me?”

“Looks like I only tried to. I just wanted to make sure you got back in safely.” Alex smiled, “You don’t have to worry about me,” she said, using Odette’s phrase against her. Odette was more serious now, “Yes I do. I could see how upset you were. How are you now?”

“I’m… better. Not perfect, but better. I’m glad we talked last night, I think I needed that more than anything.”

“With everything that happened, I needed to talk to you too.”

“Come on. Let’s get some breakfast.”

Alex and Odette walked into the dining room and everyone there stood up. Matt walked over to meet Alex and hold her hand and Derek walked over to see how Alex and Odette were doing. He knew some of what happened the night before, but he wasn’t sure if Alex was okay. She was, of course, and breakfast was more pleasant than it had been in a while.

Lauren was very quiet and seemed remorseful as Alex and her family were leaving.

“I want to apologize,” she began, but she faltered a bit. “I want to apologize for making you so miserable while you were here. I feel awful about it.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Alex replied, glad that Lauren had seen the ramifications of her actions. “It was bound to happen.”

“You’re so forgiving. Thank you Alex,” Lauren said as she shook Alex’s hand.

Alex, Matt, and her parents arrived home faster than expected, and everyone, especially Jasper, who’d been alone for the entire time Alex was gone, was glad to see them.

“I have an announcement,” Derek said before the nobles and servants alike. “Matthew Steele, one of the best young men I’ve ever known is to be knighted for bravery against pirates and thieves.” The crowd cheered, but Alex and Matt knew the true reason why he was being knighted. It was for saving Alex before she was about to be executed. They could tell Derek didn’t want to get into it with people who weren’t there.

After Matt’s vigil, a purposeful sleeplessness that takes place before a squire’s knighting ceremony, he was presented in front of all the nobles in the land. “Kneel please,” Derek said, his voice resonating throughout the Great Hall. Matt went down on one knee and bowed his head. “I dub thee,” Derek said tapping Matt on his shoulders with a saber, “Matthew Steele, of the Great Western Mountains, Knight of Chamberg.” Alex could see Matt smiling although his head was bowed. “Rise Sir Matthew Steele, Knight of Chamberg,” Derek intoned.

Matt rose and faced the crowd. Alex had never seen him so happy and proud. A few minutes later, she met him outside in the garden. “Hello Sir Knight,” she joked. Matt pulled her close to him. “Hey,” he said.

“I glad you got what you wanted,” Alex replied.

“Yeah, it’s a great achievement.”

“I could see you smiling up there.”

“I tried not to.”

Alex laughed. He was the most enjoyable to be around when he was in such a good mood; not that he was in a bad mood often. Alex sighed, “I don’t understand how you can do this.”

“Do what?”

“Hold me close like this. Even after all I did.”

Matt looked at her as she pulled away, all traces of humor on his face replaced by seriousness. “What do you mean ‘after all you did’?”

“You know what I mean.”

This was true; he didn’t really need to ask. “She’s still thinking about that night,” he thought. “You don’t need to worry about that,” he said soothingly.

Alex couldn’t make herself not worry about it. “Yes I do. It could happen again, if I’m not careful enough.”

“It wasn’t your fault. I could see that. If you really wanted to kill your mother,” he had to force himself to say kill, “it would’ve happened. I would not have been able to stop you, but you were holding back. I could feel you restraining yourself.”

“Not restraining myself nearly enough, though.”

Matt put his warm hands on Alex’s down turned face, making her look up into his eyes. “Alex, what happened could never be your fault. No one knows you like I do, and I know that you wouldn’t intentionally hurt anybody who didn’t deserve it.”

“I wish I was so sure. Now I just don’t know.”

“You don’t have to be sure. I’ll be sure enough for the both of us. How about that?”

Alex laughed, “That sounds like a good idea.” Matt pulled her closer to him and Alex sighed, “I wish things could always be like this; uncomplicated.”

“But they can’t, unfortunately.”

“Then let’s enjoy it while it lasts.”

“I second that,” Matt chuckled as he kissed Alex for a long time. They stood together until the first beams of sunlight streaked across the sky.